Top 50 most important Illini: No. 42, Bobby Walker

Originally a walk-on, beat writer Scott Richey thinks tight end Bobby Walker has a chance to make an impact this season.

Vitals: 6-4, 230, R-Jr., TE

Hometown: Golf

High School: Loyola Academy

Looking back at 2017: After appearing in just one game in 2016 as a redshirt freshman, Walker was on the field for all 12 last season. Walker, who played for former Illini John Holecek at Loyola Academy, played mostly on special teams a year ago. He did, however, catch his first career pass against Nebraska for a 7-yard reception.

Looking ahead to 2018: Walker was one of two walk-ons to receive a scholarship from Illinois coach Lovie Smith during the offseason. His role could expand this coming season, too, given Illinois' inexperience at tight end. Louis Dorsey remains at the top of the depth chart, but Walker could contend for playing time with freshman Daniel Barker and redshirt sophomore Griffin Palmer.